Fluid Intake

It is important to drink plenty of fluids (ideally 2-3 litres a day) to prevent dehydration (lack of water in the body). One of the first signs of dehydration is feeling very tired. You can drink beverages such as tea, coffee, herbal tea, milk, fizzy drinks, vegetable juice, fruit juice and fruit squash to make up your 2-3 litres, but do try to make water the main fluid that you drink.

Drinks that may dehydrate you are those with caffeine in them (such as coffee, tea and cola) and alcoholic drinks, so try to drink them in moderation.

Although drinks such as fruit juice and fizzy drinks can be counted in your 2-3 litres of fluids, you may want to watch your sugar intake as many of these drinks have high levels of sugar in them.

A good tip is to take a bottle of water with you when you leave the house so you can top up your fluids even when out and about.

If you have cancer there may be times when you need to change the types of fluids you drink (such as if you have diarrhoea, a sore mouth, you feel or are being sick). In these situations you should also follow the advice given to you on the relevant symptom page. The advice on this page may also not be applicable to you such as if you have diabetes, have had oral, stomach or bowel surgery or have difficulty chewing or swallowing. In these situations please contact your medical team for advice that is relevant to you.